The quake, measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale, hit near the coastal province of Izmir at approximately 4:17 a.m. local time. The tremor was felt across several provinces, including Aydın, Manisa, and parts of Istanbul, sending residents fleeing into the streets in panic.
Emergency response teams were swiftly dispatched to the affected areas. Officials from Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) confirmed that more than 50 people were injured, primarily due to falling debris, shattered glass, and panic-induced incidents such as falls and stampedes.
One of the most tragic outcomes of the quake was the death of a 15-year-old boy from the coastal town of Seferihisar. He was initially rescued with minor injuries and transported to a local hospital but later succumbed to internal trauma, health officials confirmed.
“There was widespread fear, but emergency protocols kicked in quickly,” said Governor Selim Köksal of Izmir. “Our hospitals are treating the injured, and we are inspecting all residential buildings and public infrastructure for safety.”
Authorities have warned residents to stay away from damaged buildings and remain alert for aftershocks, some of which have already been recorded with magnitudes ranging from 3.5 to 4.1.
Schools in several coastal districts have been closed as a precaution, and rescue teams continue to survey areas for anyone possibly trapped or in need of assistance. No large-scale building collapses have been reported, though minor structural damage has been observed.
Turkey, located on major seismic fault lines, is no stranger to powerful earthquakes. Experts continue to monitor the region closely, urging the public to follow official updates and avoid spreading unverified information.
As recovery efforts continue, the nation mourns the loss of the young boy and hopes for the swift recovery of the injured. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and praised the emergency teams for their rapid response.
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